58. Crafting continuity: A writer’s guide to style sheets

As your story expands, do you find keeping track of the evolving ideas and details overwhelming? What about if you’re writing not just one book but a whole series?

In today’s episode, you’ll learn how you can maintain consistency and track story threads, regardless of whether you’re working with professional editors or beta readers.

You’ll walk away knowing how to better communicate with your editor about their offerings, including whether they’ll create a style sheet for you. Erin also shares the importance of using style tags in writing programs like Microsoft Word or Google Docs for seamless navigation, both in your manuscript and style sheet. See episode 25 for details about using style tags.

Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting, this episode provides valuable tools to enhance your storytelling journey.

Topics discussed in this episode
  • Why style sheets make all the difference
  • Which sections to include in your style sheet and why
  • How to track story threads across a series
About Parents Who Write’s editing services

Ready to stop circling around your manuscript? As an experienced professional editor, I can help you finish your book with confidence and direction. Learn more by visiting ParentsWhoWrite.com/editing, and book a free 30-minute call with me to discuss what’s right for you.

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Looking for a community of passionate writers who understand your goals and struggles? Join my exclusive Facebook group, Parents Who Write, where you can attend weekly group writing sessions and find writing prompts, writing resources, and free weekly tutorials.


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ABOUT ME

Erin P.T. Canning has worked for 20 years as an editor, encouraging each writer’s individual voice and strengthening their writing goals.

She always planned to write a book, but life had a tendency to distract her. After dedicating six years of her life to motherhood and discovering her ADHD, she started writing again, even though she feared her writing skills had atrophied.

After letting go of her perfectionism, Erin finally finished her own shitty first draft and released her fantasy romance novel, Ruins and Redemption, in 2023. Her current role as a podcaster and book coach enables her to help writers pursue their author dreams.